Introduction to Anthropology and Sociology

Overview of Anthropology, Sociology, and Political Science

• Anthropology: Originates from "ANTHROPOS" (man) and "LOGOS" (study); focuses on the scientific study of humans.
• Key branches of anthropology:
  • Physical/Biological Anthropology: Examines physical development and biological bases.
  • Archeology: Investigates past human societies through artifacts.
  • Cultural Anthropology: Studies cultural variations among humans.
  • Linguistic Anthropology: Explores language's role in cultural context.

Goals of Anthropology

• Understand human origins and diverse existences over time.
• Observe cultural commonalities (e.g., traditions, languages).
• Discover differences across cultures.

Overview of Sociology

• Sociology: Derived from the French "sociologie," meaning "companion"; studies human social relationships and institutions.

Goals of Sociology

• Investigate the nature of humanity.
• Appreciate the structure and function of society.
• Understand how cultural and social structures shape human actions and consciousness.

Overview of Political Science

• Political Science: A social science focusing on human interactions, government, and state mechanisms.

Goals of Political Science

• Foster better citizenship.
• Maintain social order among diverse groups.
• Protect individual rights and avoid conflicts.
• Promote cooperation and deepen understanding of governance.
• Pursue progress and enhance quality of life globally.

Concepts of Culture and Society

• Analyzing the concepts, aspects, and changes in culture and society.
• Importance of culture’s influence on societal development.

Definition of Culture

• Culture encompasses achievements in human society, including beliefs, practices, values, and norms.
• Elements of Culture:
  • Knowledge: Information acquired.
  • Beliefs: Accepted reality.
  • Social Norms: Expectations for behavior (includes folkways, mores, and values).

Types of Culture

• Non-Material Culture: Intangible aspects like ideas, languages, symbols, beliefs, gestures.
• Material Culture: Tangible items such as tools, food, fashion, and architecture.

Filipino Culture Highlights

• Celebrated for its vibrancy:
  • Strong family bonds and hospitality.
  • Emphasis on positivity and resilience.
  • Rich diversity in dialects and languages.
  • Varied religious practices.
  • Unique tools, culinary traditions, gestures, fashion, arts, and architecture.

Social and Cultural Change

• Cultural Change: Modifications in cultural elements (e.g., adaptation of greeting rituals during COVID-19).
• Social Change: Variations in social patterns encompassing politics, economy, health, and geography.

Community and Society

• Defined as a complex network of interconnected individuals.
• Organized groups sharing common interests and goals, reflective of their culture.